A Look At Cornish Charities
Cornish people are traditionally known for their hospitality and their generosity towards strangers (it’s a trait among sea-faring communities). It’s not surprising that so many charities were started here in Cornwall.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the wonderful charities that began or are based here in Cornwall
The RNLI
We know that the RNLI isn’t technically a Cornish charity (it was founded in London by a Manxman!). However, with our 250 miles of coastline, the RNLI is a vital part of daily Cornish life. It’s astonishing to think that the brave crews are made of local volunteers, such as Cornish Escapes’ own James! Find out more about James’ work and the RNLI in Cornwall in our blog.
Surfers Against Sewage
The marine conservation charity began its life in St Agnes church hall back in 1990, when a team of local surfers decided to do something about the shocking state of the waters. Today, the charity works across the world and their work seems more vital than ever. Do your bit to support SAS when you’re on your Cornwall holidays by joining in with one of their beach cleans. We also recommend their app, which gives live updates of any pollution alerts across the UK, as well as the day’s tide times.
St Petrocs
Truro-based “St Pet’s” was established in 1986 as a response to the city’s increase in rough sleepers. They opened their first accommodation two years later and by 2021, the charity was managing 21 properties across Cornwall. The charity’s aim is to end homelessness in Cornwall and is involved with campaigning as well as providing immediate support.
The Wave Project
This awesome charity operates across the country, but it began down here in Cornwall. The amazing Wave Project offers surf therapy to young people. The combination of a stimulating challenge, the ocean environment and the Project’s supportive culture helps to change lives. Children and teenagers who are struggling are referred by their school or mental health professionals. Take a look at their testimonials on the website: it’s deeply moving.
ShelterBox
From Helston to, well, wherever they’re needed. ShelterBox goes into places where most of us would fear to tread, bringing lifesaving essentials to people whose homes have been wrecked by disaster. The Cornish charity supplies and delivers emergency tents and “ShelterBoxes”, which contain vital equipment including blankets, tools, lights and water filters.
Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust
In a largely rural place like Cornwall, emergency response times can be slower. That’s why the Cornwall Air Ambulance was introduced in 1986: a fast and responsive way to reach remote communities. The team attends over 1,000 missions every year across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly – and astonishingly, doesn’t receive direct government support towards its running costs.
Children’s Hospice South West
This wonderful charity provides care for children with life-limiting conditions, along with their families, across the South West. In Cornwall, the charity recently fundraised for and built Little Harbour, a hospice by the sea that feels more like a holiday home than a hospital. Here, families can be together and enjoy the lovely surroundings, while still receiving the care and support they need.
Penhaligon’s Friends
Penhaligon’s Friends is a Cornish charity that supports children, parents and carers with bereavement. They also provide bereavement training for healthcare professionals. The charity was launched in 1995 to address the gaps in child-centred bereavement provision in the county and today, it has over 80 staff and volunteers providing support.
Cornwall Blood Bikes
This incredible volunteer team of bikers “Ride for life” across the county, delivering emergency supplies out of hours. Operating overnight, at weekends and on bank holidays, the team delivers blood, medical equipment, medication and donor breast milk. With no funding, they rely on donations and sponsorship (it costs £6,000 a year to keep each bike on the road). Look out for their distinctive liveried bikes when you’re driving around Cornwall.
Cornwall Food Banks
Like most areas, foodbank use in Cornwall has increased dramatically over the last decade and there were 28 food banks in the county by 2022. As well as providing much-needed provisions, the food banks often offer advice and practical help, as well as a friendly ear and often, hot food and drink. These are run by volunteers, with the food provided through community and business donations.
Cornwall Hugs Grenfell
This unique Cornish charity began with a Facebook post following the the Grenfell tragedy: “Imagine if we could put a Cornish holiday on the horizon of every Grenfell resident and firefighter family…”. Lots of local people and businesses responded to Esme Page’s post and Cornall Hugs Grenfell was born. The charity provides free, much-needed Cornish holidays to families affected by Grenfell, giving them a chance to rest and recuperate for a time.
Cornish Escapes: How we Help
Here at Cornish Escapes, we sponsor a number of local charities and small businesses and hope to be able to support more in the future.
Take a look at our Sponsorship page to find out what we’re up to: